I needed to use a food bank after graduating – now I want to end the stigma
I Needed to Use a Food Bank After Graduating – Now I Want to End the Stigma
I needed to use a food – Steven Crichton, a therapist from Pontypridd in Rhondda Cynon Taf, has transformed his personal struggles into a mission to support others. After graduating with a first-class honors in psychology, he now volunteers at the Taff Ely food bank, aiming to make the experience less daunting for families facing hardship. His journey began decades earlier, when tragedy struck his life at a young age.
A Lifelong Battle with Shame
Steven’s father passed away from suicide when he was just six years old. This event left a profound mark on his childhood, shaping his relationship with mental health and self-worth. He grew up believing that “bad things happen to me,” a mindset that led to significant challenges, including mental health struggles and a heroin addiction. For years, he felt isolated, unsure how to express his pain, until he found solace in counseling.
“After my dad took his own life, no one really knew how to talk to me,” Steven reflected. “I carried the belief that ‘bad things happen to me’ for a long time.”
Counseling became a turning point, helping him reclaim his life and build resilience. This inspired him to pursue higher education in his thirties, eventually qualifying as a therapist. However, the transition to independent living was not without its difficulties. Following the completion of his degree, Steven and his partner Kat faced financial instability, often skipping meals to ensure their children had proper lunches. Despite this, he found the food bank to be a surprisingly dignifying experience.
From Crisis to Contribution
Steven’s time at the University of South Wales was both transformative and challenging. During his studies, he met Kat, and their relationship blossomed into a whirlwind romance. “We moved in together in her first year, by the second year we had a baby… on my graduation day I proposed to her,” he shared. The couple’s life took a dramatic turn as they navigated new responsibilities, but Steven’s determination to provide for his family led him to explore ways to make ends meet.
After graduating, the couple experienced a difficult period, relying on the food bank to sustain them. Steven’s experiences there, he said, were “uplifting” because of the kindness and understanding he encountered. “I was like, this is a victory,” he explained. “I’m strong, I’m not weak. I’m courageous.” This realization motivated him to share his insights, helping food banks adapt their services to better meet the needs of users.
Revamping Food Bank Services
Steven’s advocacy for food banks has led to tangible changes. He worked with the Taff Ely food bank to eliminate the stigma associated with using their services. One key adjustment was removing marker pens from carrier bags, ensuring users could remain anonymous. This simple shift empowered families to choose their own food, fostering a sense of independence and control. “It gives people a bit more autonomy,” he noted. “They can pick their own items, trade one thing for another, and still receive an allowance without the shame of being seen as dependent.”
These modifications not only reduce stigma but also help minimize food waste. Steven emphasized the importance of reframing the perception of food bank visits as a sign of strength rather than failure. “The stigma could stop people from reaching out for help,” he said. “But when you understand the situation, it becomes a way to connect and support others.”
A Partnership That Makes a Difference
Matthew Stevens, partnership coordinator at Taff Ely Food Bank, praised Steven’s contributions to their mission. “Reducing the stigma around food bank use has always been a priority for us,” Matthew stated. “Tackling that shame ensures people who need support are willing to seek it.” He highlighted how Steven’s lived experience provides volunteers with deeper empathy, enabling them to better assist users. “His background ensures he knows exactly what it’s like for someone to walk through those doors for the first time,” Matthew added. “This helps volunteers adapt their approach and create a more welcoming environment.”
Steven’s own therapy business, launched with the University of South Wales’s support, now serves as a platform for his work. He credits his early struggles with giving him the insight to improve food bank services. “The idea of helping others came from my own journey,” he said. “I wanted to make sure the next person in need felt as supported as I did.”
Stability and a Commitment to Giving Back
Today, Steven and his family have achieved a sense of stability. After managing the financial demands of raising children and running his business, he remains dedicated to the charities that helped him along the way. “It would always be my priority to give back,” he said. “Those organizations provided the support I needed when I was at my lowest.”
His efforts extend beyond the food bank, as he collaborates with other charities to enhance user experiences. Steven’s perspective is rooted in personal resilience, making him a powerful advocate for those who feel ashamed to seek help. “People often underestimate the impact of small changes,” he explained. “By making the process more dignified, we can encourage more individuals to rely on these vital resources.”
Other Stories of Resilience and Rediscovery
Steven’s story is part of a broader narrative of overcoming adversity and contributing to community well-being. In the same news story, other accounts highlight similar themes of perseverance. One individual shared how a trip to India left them with 38 parasites in their brain, a challenge they overcame through medical care. Another story recounted a couple who turned their mid-terrace garden into a tropical jungle, complete with poisonous plants. Meanwhile, a signed Paul McCartney book, found in a charity shop, sold for nearly £1,000, showcasing how even unexpected moments can lead to remarkable outcomes.
These diverse stories reflect the varied ways people navigate hardship and find meaning in their struggles. Steven’s journey, however, stands out for its direct connection to the food bank experience, illustrating how personal pain can evolve into collective empowerment. His work continues to inspire others, proving that resilience is not just about surviving but about transforming lives through compassion and understanding.
By sharing his story, Steven aims to break down barriers and foster a culture of support. His experiences underscore the importance of addressing societal stigma, ensuring that no one feels ashamed to seek help during times of crisis. As he volunteers at the food bank, Steven embodies the idea that vulnerability is a strength, and that every step taken to overcome challenges can pave the way for others.
